(a) Explain what is meant by natural grassland. (d) State five characteristics of natural grassland (c) List four grasses and three pasture legumes commonly...

Answer Details

a) Natural grassland refers to a type of ecosystem dominated by grasses and other herbaceous plants that is found in regions where the climate and soil conditions are suitable for their growth. Natural grasslands can occur in a variety of environments, from arid deserts to humid tropical forests.

b) Five characteristics of natural grasslands include:

1. Dominance of grasses and other herbaceous plants
2. Seasonal growth patterns, with vegetation becoming dormant during periods of drought or low rainfall
3. Adaptation to fire and grazing, with some grass species being able to withstand or even benefit from these disturbances
4. Biodiversity, with many different plant and animal species coexisting in the same ecosystem
5. Vulnerability to environmental degradation, with natural grasslands being threatened by factors such as overgrazing, invasive species, and climate change

c) Four grasses commonly found in natural grasslands include:

1. Buffalograss
2. Blue grama
3. Prairie dropseed
4. Big bluestem

Three pasture legumes commonly found in natural grasslands include:

1. Alfalfa
2. Clover
3. Birdsfoot trefoil

These grasses and legumes are adapted to the environmental conditions of natural grasslands and play an important role in providing food and habitat for a variety of animals, from grazing herbivores to insects and birds.